Cruise Control Safety

Cruise control is a feature that is available on the majority of vehicles on the road today. Cruise control, sometimes known as speed control or auto cruise, is a system that automatically controls the speed of a motor vehicle. It allows the driver to maintain the vehicle’s speed without applying or holding pressure to the gas peddle. When used correctly and responsibly, cruise control has many benefits, such as reduced fuel consumption, maintaining a constant speed, and driving below the speed limit.

But, to operate a vehicle safely, there are several procurations that you need to follow when cruise control is activated:

1. Do not under any circumstance take your eyes off the road.
2. Ensure that you read the owner’s manual to properly use the cruise control on the make and model of the specific vehicle you are driving.
3. Evaluate driving conditions – Cruise control is not designed to be used in adverse weather conditions such as snow, ice, rain, fog, etc.
4. Do not set the cruise control above the posted speed limit.
5. Do not use cruise control on roads with sharp or frequent turns.
6. Do not use if you, the driver, are tired or drowsy.
7. Do not use in high-traffic areas with the potential for stop-and-go traffic.
8. Ensure you leave adequate spacing between you and the vehicle in front of you. Your reaction time decreases by almost five seconds.

For more information on Cruise Control, visit https://tc.canada.ca/en/road-transportation/driver-assistance-technologies/adaptive-cruise-control.